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Two thirds of people with dementia suffer from 'loneliness'

The Alzheimer's Society organises events to support people living with dementia Photo:

Nearly two thirds of people in Wales feel those with dementia have a bad quality of life.

Research by the Alzheimers Society found that 250,000 people with the disease live on their own and suffer from feeling lonely.

The Dementia 2013 report also found that the statistic was reflected in the views of dementia sufferers, 70% of whom said they had stopped doing things they used to due to a lack of confidence.

People with dementia say they rely on relatives and friends for social contact with almost a quarter (21%) of sufferers speaking to friends and family on the telephone less than once a month

Only 28% of people in Wales thought it was possible for someone with dementia to live alone

Twelve percent of people in Wales said they felt uncomfortable talking to someone with dementia

Nearly two thirds (62%) of 250,000 people with dementia who live on their own are lonely

The Alzheimer’s Society said that the findings supported their argument that a commissioner for people with Alzheimers to ensure appropriate support services are available, whilst urging people and organisations to play their part in helping ensure their communities are dementia friendly.

This report reveals the stark truth that too many people with dementia, especially the thousands who live alone, are truly isolated. We need to put a stop to this epidemic of loneliness, not only to improve quality of life but also to save thousands from reaching crisis point and being admitted to hospital unnecessarily or care homes early.

The reality is that many people still feel disconnected from society. It's time for all of us to play a part in helping people with dementia live well with the condition.

– SUE PHELPS, DIRECTOR OF ALZHEIMER'S SOCIETY IN WALES

The findings from Dementia 2013 are based on a survey of 510 people with dementia in Wales.